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KAYAKING CHECKLIST

Paddling a kayak is one of the most fun and exciting outdoor activities. We recommend you use the following checklist so you can have a fun, comfortable and safe experience. Use this list with the Outdoor Essentials list to make sure you have all the gear you need to ensure a fun, safe and comfortable trip.

Kayak  Equipped with a tow line that has a quick release. Make sure your boat is appropriate for the conditions you wish to paddle in.

Personal Flotation Device  Be sure to wear your PFD whenever you are on the water. A Type III PFD is the most common and versatile. Make sure it fits well, is comfortable and nonchafing. An extra PFD is nice to have on a multiday trip.

Float plan  Whether you're in a kayak or a canoe, you should always tell others of your plans for the day. For a multiday excursion, you should leave a detailed written itinerary with a family member or trusted friend.

Kayak paddle and spare  The lighter the better, to help you save energy. For most recreational kayaks a 230 or 240 cm is the right size. Carry a spare paddle attached where you can reach it in case you lose your primary paddle.

Paddle float and leash   A paddle float will help with a self-rescue should you capsize. A leash will keep your paddle from drifting away should you accidentally drop it.

Dry bag  Always use a dry bag to keep spare clothes and other important gear dry. If you happen to capsize or otherwise get wet, it will be critical to have dry clothes to change into.

Whistle/strobe light  Voices don't carry far into the wind. A whistle or strobe light will help alert other members of your party or would-be rescuers in an emergency. Many PFDs are equipped with a built-in whistle.

Waterproof case  Keep your valuable electronics in working order by keeping them dry. This includes cell phones, GPS units, electronic car keys and MP3 players. Keep maps/charts in a waterproof case.

Bilge pump or bailer  No matter the weather, water will always get into your boat. A pump or bailer will come in handy getting water out, and in bad weather or an emergency it is a critically important piece of equipment.

Spray skirt  If you paddle in rough water or make long open-water crossings, a spray skirt is essential to keep water out of your kayak. Make sure it fits before you head out. The skirt needs to come off easily should you have to make a quick exit. The grab loop must be accessible and not accidentally tucked inside the cockpit where you can’t get at it.

Weather radio/tides  Bring along so you are aware of any weather alerts that may crop up while you’re paddling. If in the ocean, always be aware of the times of low and high tide so you can anticipate which direction the currents will be flowing.

Toilet paper/WAG bag  If you're camping out, be aware of carry in/carry out regulations. For example, many wilderness canoe/kayak campsites require you carry all waste out. A bucket and WAG (Waste Alleviating and Gelling) bag is a great way to collect, store and transport human waste from camping areas.

Large sponge  Useful to soak up water that may collect in your boat.

Paddling apparel

Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. Cold-water hypothermia can be a real danger on even the smallest body of water on the nicest day. The air may be in the 70s but if the water is in the 50s or below, you need to be prepared.

FOR WARM WATER OVER 60 DEGREES

Bathing suit, paddling shorts or synthetic pants  Lightweight neoprene like NRS Hydroskin is a good choice on colder days.

Light- or midweight synthetic top  Either short-sleeve or long-sleeve with arms you can roll up. Wool and tops like the NRS Hydroskin are also good choices.

Midweight top layer and/or lightweight vest  Your PFD helps keep you warm but if a breeze picks with a bit of spray, you can quickly cool off.

Paddling or rain jacket  In heavier winds a wind- and waterproof jacket will come in very handy. A hood is nice to have if you have paddle spray coming from behind.

Paddling shoes/booties for wet conditions  These should protect your heels when in the kayak, fit easily under your cockpit, and have tough enough soles for protection from shells and broken glass when on shore. If you’re camping out, be sure to bring along a pair of dry shoes to change into.

Paddling gloves    Help keep blisters at bay, plus keep your hands warmer.

Hat(s)  A wide brim for the sun. A wool hat is great for breezy, cooler days.

FOR COLD WATER LESS THAN 60 DEGREES  

Dry suit  A good dry suit is expensive but it will keep you dry and warm if you fall into cold water. The colder the water, the more warm layers you should wear under the suit. Add neoprene gloves, booties and hoodie for colder conditions.

Wet suit  Neoprene wet suits 3 to 5 mm thick are less expensive that dry suits and are a great way to stay warm. You can wear thin layers under the suit and a paddling jacket on top for extra warmth. Add neoprene gloves, booties and hoodie for colder conditions.

OUTDOOR ESSENTIALS

Whether heading outdoors for a few hours or a few days, L.L.Bean strongly recommends having these essential items with you at all times:

Water  Use these minimum guidelines to ensure you stay hydrated: one quart for a couple of hours, two quarts for four hours and four to six quarts for a daylong hike. Make sure you are well hydrated before your hike. Drink early and often. Bringing a water treatment system along to treat any water needed beyond two quarts will help save weight. All water found on the trail should be treated.

Food  Next to staying hydrated, keeping “fueled” is crucial to safely enjoying your adventures. Regular small snacks keep your energy going throughout the day. Before heading out, eat foods that are rich in calories and that take a while to digest. On the trail, eat sports bars and gorp (“good old raisins and peanuts” &ndash often supplemented with chocolate) to provide quick energy throughout the day.

Map and compass/GPS  Always carry a detailed topographic map of the area you are visiting. An updated trail guide or description will help you stay on the right trail. Your compass can be a simple dial style, although one with a base plate is quite helpful when using with the map. GPS units are helpful but you must know how to use your map and compass should the GPS fail. Always carry spare batteries for your GPS.

Lighting  Always carry a headlamp on a hike in case you stay out longer than planned. Hiking in the dark without a light can be very dangerous. Always have spare batteries and a back-up light. For the campsite, it’s a good idea to have a lantern or flashight.

Fire starter kit  This is necessary for starting your stove to cook or in an emergency when starting a fire is critical to stay warm. Your kit should include waterproof matches with striker in a waterproof container and fire starter such as candles or steel strikers that work when wet and produce a high-temperature spark. A small amount of tinder kept in a waterproof container is also helpful. Dryer lint, wax-soaked cotton balls and wood shavings are three examples of good tinder.

Sun protection – apparel  Sun-blocking apparel is a convenient way to protect yourself from the sun. It won’t wear off during the day like lotion. We offer a comprehensive assortment of sun blocking apparel, including hats, shirts and pants.

Sun protection – lotion  Waterproof sunscreen is key. Apply before you head out and reapply a couple of times according to directions. SPF lip balm is also recommended.

Sunglasses  Sunglasses and a brimmed hat will protect your eyes and help keep you comfortable.

First aid kit  We offer several good first aid kits that pack small if you don’t want to make your own. We recommend a supplemental blister kit with moleskin and blister-specific adhesive strips, as this is one of the more common outdoor issues. Also, make sure members of your group have all their required prescriptions.

Warm clothing and rain gear  Pack the layers you would need to survive the night in the worst possible weather for the location and season. This may be as simple as a raincoat for a sudden summer thunderstorm to several layers and a waterproof jacket and pants for a winter adventure. All base layers should be synthetic or wool.

Knife/multitool  From cutting off the end of an errant strap, to making a fuzz stick for fire starting, a knife has lots of uses on the trail. A multitool with small scissors, tweezers, screwdrivers, etc., solves even more problems.

Cell phone  A fully charged cell phone can be a great way to get help in an emergency situation, but you may not have service in remote areas. Don’t rely on a cell phone as a substitute for being prepared.

Repair kit  Handy field repair items include duct tape, nylon repair tape, wire ties, safety pins and parachute cord. A needle and thread is also good to have for a quick fix. A space blanket or small section of poly can be used in a pinch for an emergency shelter.

For more ways to learn about the outdoors, check out our free in-store clinics along with our Outdoor Discovery Schools trips, tours and classes at llbean.com/adventure.
Shop for all your outdoor gear at llbean.com or call or call 1 (888)-797-3880.